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We all know, when it comes to hot-rodding a vehicle, it’s all about the numbers. Horsepower, torque, bore, stroke, quarter-mile times, car allowance, home equity loan.

Speaking the gearheads’ language, a few hard figures can put in perspective the scale of the annual insiders-only event thrown by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) to support this great American passion. The $25 billion industry gathers for its annual reunion at a 1.2 million-square-foot convention center in Las Vegas, where 1300 companies display their wares in 6300 booths to over 80,000 attendees. Think of it as a performance Mecca, where all the faithful make the pilgrimage, often with their own extremely modified machine, to take measure of the latest products, trends, and emerging companies. Looking to identify niches, strike deals, and secure distribution, these professional car nuts pull no punches. As proof, we submit a sampling of the tantalizing concept and project vehicles on display, showcasing the latest production componentry and leading trends.

Ford partners with SEMA and the aftermarket to help bring uniquely personalized vehicles to market. Click Here to see Ford vehicles on display from the SEMA show.

Built as a design exercise to explore the possibility of touring car racing, the body and chassis of the RSX Concept features race-tuned suspension, 19-inch “black chrome” wheels, prototype Michelin F1 rain tires, Brembo brakes, front and rear carbon-fiber spoilers and diffusers, an underbody spoiler, dual center exhaust, custom HID headlights, and massive fender flares to compensate for the increased track. Inside, the driver cockpit has been track-prepped with carbon fiber seats, race-style instrument panel, and a S2000 gauge cluster with 9000 rpm redline. Engine enhancements are consistent with a powerplant that would be competitive in the German DTM touring car racing series (about 500 horsepower).

GM toy makers have truly stretched the boundaries with this sport coupe, adding a specially designed body kit including front and rear fascias, body side moldings, ram air scoops, and rear spoiler. Its turbocharged 2.2-liter Ecotec engine is motivated by a five-speed manual transmission, and power is applied to the pavement via Racing Hart M-5 three-piece 19×8.0-inch wheels shod in Toyo Proxes FZ-4 tires. The outside is coated in three-stage Nippon Platinum Mirrorized paint. Inside, the Turbo Sport boasts Sparco Milano special-edition black leather seats, black leather steering wheel, and leather and brushed aluminum shift knob for a modern and sophisticated look.

Chevrolet claims this is one of the fastest Cavaliers ever built, thanks to its all-aluminum 16-valve 2.2-liter/262-hp Ecotec engine, boosted by a roots-type supercharger with liquid-to-air intercooler. Its suspension has been lowered 1.75 inches, and Baer Racing cross-drilled, zinc-washed brakes with anti-lock bring it to a stop. Three-piece HRE wheels wear P225/40ZR18 Toyo Proxes T1-S rubber, while the body wears new front and rear fascias, as well as body side molding, wheel flares, and rear spoiler. Screaming tangerine orange paint is matched by a thunderous 600-watt Kenwood Excelon audio system with MP-3, CD, and AM/FM abilities.

A sure-fire way to jumpstart a Corvette enthusiast’s passion is to use “427” and “Shark” in reference to a single, fiberglass-bodied sports car. Mere mention conjures fantasies of the 1965 Mako Shark II concept powered by a 427 Mark IV V-8 that influenced Corvette design for years. Roaring out of the Chevrolet toy box this year is an instant-C5 legend touting a bored-out 7.0-liter LS1 V-8 topped with a Vortech supercharger. Power peaks at a Pro Street-worthy 742-horses with 690 axle-straining lb-ft of torque. The monstrous aluminum engine propels a chassis fortified with Moton three-way adjustable coil-over shocks, Hotchkis anti-roll bars, massive Brembo brakes, and Goodyear F1 Fiorano tires (295/35ZR18 front, 335/30ZR18 rear).

International engineering powerhouse Magna Steyr has cooked up a vision for the 50th anniversary Corvette. While the enthusiast world awaits word on what form the true production car will take, this 1953-meets-2002 concept is certain to get conversation, if not juices, flowing. The tribute design incorporates a new front clip with rounded fenders, recessed headlamps with wire covers, chrome grille, side moldings, and rear fascia with integrated taillights. The red interior is dressed with white accents and limited retro cues, such as a cue-ball shift knob. While the show car is white like the original, it benefits from current Corvette’s chassis, powertrain, interior refinements, and technical sophistication. (Photo: Andy Bolig)

Hot rodding legend Boyd Coddington put his spin on the Chrysler 300M. The respected customizer applied sinister black paint and blacked-out chrome accentuate, modified the front grille, and smoothed moldings and decklid. The stance of the 300M is three inches lower than stock and the Coddington 300M sits on 19-inch Boyd custom wheels wrapped in 245/40 Dunlop tires. Performance is enhanced with a modified exhaust and upgraded Prowler engine components. Subtle pinstripes and other trademark Boyd Coddington enhancements add to the “custom” look of this 300M.

The extreme PT Pickup features a unique front grille, front fascia, and taillights to set off the special truck body. A custom rear roll pan, rear bed spoiler, side exhausts, stainless tonneau, and enormous BBS wheels and Michelin tires hint at the performance potential of this little Cruiser. Underneath the unique bodywork lies a 500-hp Viper RT/10 engine, linked to a six-speed manual transmission and supported by a custom tube frame. A combination Viper and air lift suspension ensure the PT/10 handles and Wilwood Venter brakes make sure it can stop.

The name tells the story: the Prowler Hard Top concept features a custom composite hard top with a styled trim headliner offering a chopped-top hot rod appearance while keeping the two-seat cockpit dry, more secure, and quieter. Slathered in a custom Prowler High Voltage Blue PPG paint job and fitted with a Mopar Performance dual exhaust system, the Hard Top looked ready for the Woodward Dream Cruise.

The slick black Razor’s Edge features Paxton’s new supercharger system designed for the Dodge 4.7-liter V-8 engine. Matched with an intercooler and exhaust system, the blower package offers a fiery 45 percent increase in horsepower at eight pounds of boost. This sinister truck also boasts a one-inch-lower ride height, Hotchkiss sway bars, Koni shocks, and 19-inch aluminum wheels. The exterior features a fiberglass bed cover, custom billet grille and a black ghost flame paint job.

The Dodge Mobile Garage is a go-anywhere race garage on wheels prepared by the enthusiast editors at Primedia. Adorning the custom exterior is a do-it-yourselfer’s dream garage with Craftsman tools and tool box, a Craftsman generator, air compressor, and Craftsman high-output exterior lighting. A Miller Electric welding system and Durakon cargo bed complete the package.

The So-Cal Speed Shop Salt Flats Pusher is designed to mimic the famous So-Cal Belly Tank racers of the 1950s. The exterior features a louvered hood, stainless-steel grille inserts, Muroc Styled 20-inch alloy wheels, and a trick suspension system that lowers the Ram by five-inches. Forward motion is enhanced with Hooker headers, an easier breathing cat-back exhaust system, and nitrous oxide injection. Alongside the So-Cal Dodge Ram is an actual Belly Tank Racer, made from the fuel tank of a WWII fighter plane.

Looking like a life-size Hot Wheels car, this unique Ford Focus has been upgraded by Bruno Independent Living Aids and Ballistic Unlimited to assist the needs of physically challenged drivers. In addition to extensive exterior upgrades, it features driver/passenger power Turnouts, Bruno’s custom “low profile” front seats, and hand-operated driving controls.

Rigid impact beams in place of doors and retractable roof and rear give the Blast a decidedly toy-like appearance. The 4WD pickup is equipped with a 4.6-liter V-8 engine producing 260 hp and more than 300 lb.-ft. of torque.

A collection of performance, suspension, interior, and audio component companies have come together to create the Focus NV, a rally appearance vehicle with performance to match. The 2.0-liter, 16-valve Zetec engine has been overhauled with a supercharger, adjustable cams, and new headers.

A modern-day Explorer with the classic styling of a 1946 Ford Super Deluxe. The one-of-a-kind Explorer features Birdseye Maple wood application — inside and out — and a number of performance enhancements including more aggressive brakes and tires.

This special-edition Mustang created by Air Ride Technologies features a 4.6-liter V-8 modified with a Vortech Supercharger, JBA headers, and a titanium exhaust by Borla. Interior accessories include custom titanium trim and Ford Bullitt pedals and shifter knobs.

Unlikely to be confused with a figure skating exhibition, this F-Series Super Duty pickup is designed to handle the most extreme conditions. Beyond the stock 7.3-liter Power Stroke diesel engine and four-wheel-drive system, the glacier-sized truck features more than 30 accessories, including front bumper, fiberglass hood, suspension package, winch, lighting, and interior trim.

This stylized Explorer Sport supposedly celebrates the unique the style and attitude of today’s — and tomorrow’s — American teenager. Based on a two-wheel-drive Ford Explorer Sport, the show vehicle features interior upgrades, extensive body work, and suspension lowering that suggests teenagers are immune to speed bumps.

GMC claims this vehicle represents the next step in professional-grade trucks for contractors, builders, and other tradesmen. Its 6.0-liter Vortec 6000 V-8 features a Magnuson supercharger package that boosts horsepower 20 percent, to 328 hp (rumors say GM Performance Parts is considering this package for future models). Inside, the truck utilizes a 60/40 split rear bench, with the 40-percent portion being removable; additionally, interior capacity is improved by portable multi-bin organizers and jumbo, reconfigurable under-seat storage box that can hold large tools or even a four-foot level. The rear driver’s door panel carries a removable Panasonic Toughbook laptop computer, and the rear passenger door holds a removable tool kit.

Set to arrive at Honda dealers nationwide in March of 2002, the Civic Si is a paint-by-numbers canvas for modifications from myriad SEMA member companies. Already a pocket-size hot rod, the Si packs a 2.0-liter/160-hp i-VTEC inline four, quick-ratio five-speed manual, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, deep-bolstered seats, side airbags, moonroof, and full power amenities. Recognizing the Civic’s role as the 1957 Chevy for new millenium, Genuine Honda Accessories has cooked up a variety of items to offer through dealers. This Si showcased carbon-fiber interior trim pieces, splash guards, fog lights and an engine cover with red lettering.

The Honda Civic Concept answers the question, “What would a factory-built, high-performance Civic coupe from Honda be like?” Significant engine enhancements raise the horsepower and torque of the current 1.7-liter/127-hp engine to 170-hp through a custom high-flow intake manifold, a ported, polished and decked head, a custom exhaust header, a large two-inch exhaust system, and a sport muffler. The chassis has been fortified with a variation of the new Sport suspension (available through Honda Accessories), four-piston Brembo brake calipers, 18×7-inch wheels, and 225/40-18 BFGoodrich tires. Appearance enhanced through a prototype ground effects kit, blacked-out headlight frames, a carbon-fiber sports grille, and rear wing.

Hummer’s H1 Alpha Vision prototype retains its outstanding off-road prowess, while adding high-tech luxury to the performance mix. Its 8.1-liter/340-hp Vortec V-8 gasoline engine is teamed up with a TorqTrac4 traction control system and four-speed automatic transmission for durable, low-maintenance performance. The massive demilitarized machine rides on a full independent suspension package combining 3.5-inch-diameter shocks with external reservoirs for position-sensitive valving for a smoother, more-controlled ride and increased wheel travel. Inside, the Alpha Vision features Delphi Integrated Navigation Radio with full-map GPS navigation, CD-ROM/audio player, Raytheon Night Vision system, and OnStar. For rear passengers, there’s an integrated Delphi entertainment system with a seven-inch LCD monitor with audio/video controls and DVD and video game player.

The ultimate expression of Jaguar‘s top-of-the-line sports coupe, the XKR-R is motivated by a supercharged V-8 engine boosted to over 400 horsepower. Jaguar claims impressive 4.6-second 0-60 mph times for the luxury roadster. The Special Vehicle Operations team’s attention to detail in the metamorphosis from stock XKR to the unique XKR-R can be seen in the production finish, exhibited from the shape of the front bumper to the quad-outlet exhaust.

The Borla Performance Industries Liberty Freedom showcases a raft of enhancements, which naturally include a set of Borla stainless-steel headers and full exhaust system. Other modifications include performance brakes, suspension, shocks, and air inlet system. The driver and passengers receive the bulk of the attention with a custom leather interior, wood trim, custom gauges, GPS navigation, “hands-free” mobile accessories, custom audio and video, and even neon interior lighting. The exterior is augmented by custom wheels, winch, and tubular accessories.

Last year SEMA hosted a PT Cruiser Woodie with an Indian in tow. For 2002, it’s the Liberty’s turn. At a glance, Decoma’s custom Woodie package harkens back to an era of Grand Wagoneers and early Cherokees. Running boards, BBS wheels, and performance tires further dress up the compact sport/ute. For the complete package, the Liberty is hitched to an Indian Woodie motorcycle with customized trailer.

Slathered with House of Colors SolidGold Bullion paint, the Performance West/Kenne Bell Jeep Liberty Patriot is as fast as it is bright. The 3.7 Liter V-6 is enlived with a complete Kenne Bell supercharger package featuring a Kenne Bell performance chip and ram air induction system. Custom stainless steel light bars, side steps, and bumper guards give the body a more purposeful look. Fender flares provide room for the Koenig alloy wheels and Goodyear Wrangler off-road tires. A White Night lighting system and PIAA Model 80 Racing Lights keep things moving under cover of darkness.

Based on a production Discovery Series II, this jungle-ready Land Rover served as a development exercise for the upcoming limited-edition Discovery Kalahari – available soon. The Kalahari concept showcases a host of Safari Gard product innovations, adding further to the Discovery Series II’s already impressive performance both on- and off-road.

The Callaway performance tuning house worked its magic on a 2002 Land Rover Freelander, enhancing its performance without reducing its off-road ability. Addressing the vehicle’s Achilles heel, Callaway fitted a supercharger to the small-displacement engine. Carbon fiber dresses up the engine compartment. The exterior was given a sport treatment, augmented by a striking wheel/tire package.

The main goal of this vehicle is to show aftermarket accessory options that are actually available to the consumer who wishes to modify his car for additional performance or style. From the polyurethane body kits (which include front fascia, side skirts, and rear spoiler and valance) to the suspension lowering springs and anti roll bars, all these L-Tuned components are offered through local Lexus dealers. Additional available modifications found on this car include a stainless-steel, high-flow muffler with polished tip, 18.5×7.5-inch seven-spoke aluminum wheels wrapped in P225/40ZR18 Michelin Pilot Sports tires, and TRD front brake package with larger calipers and oversize vented slotted rotors.

Performance modifications to this luxury sport sedan include a supercharger, intercooler, electronic upgrades, and a performance air intake system that helps the 3.9-liter V-8 engine generate 350 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque. Other performance modifications consist of a lower ride height, Bilstein shocks, upgraded anti-roll bars, 19-inch aluminum wheels, and Z-rated tires. Extensive exterior and interior enhancements give the car a bad-as-Marauder appearance to match the vehicle’s performance.

The customized Protege5 is a moving showcase for the work of Troy Lee Design, a company famous for cutting-edge design work and personalized helmet painting. Beyond the wild paint scheme, the exterior is enhanced with a custom mesh grille, lowered suspension, 18-inch BBS rims, and grippy Toyo tires.

The classic Marauder moniker is resurrected as a 2003 Grand Marquis performance sedan powered by a 4.6-liter V-8 engine. With 300 horsepower on tap, the Marauder will reportedly run from 0 to 60 mph in the mid six-second range. The 2003 model stays true to its muscle car heritage, putting a big engine in a mainstream car. The monochromatic exterior design features body surfaces finished in gloss black paint; dark-tinted headlamp and taillamp bezels; “Marauder” embossed in the rear fascia; and high-intensity fog lamps. The lowered front end and higher rear provide muscle car rake.

The Silver Streak, named after the sleek, high-speed train, this potent Moutaineer boasts a Kenne Bell twin screw supercharger that generates 386 horsepower and over 410 lb.-ft. of torque. Other mods include performance-tuned suspension, lightweight 20-inch alloy wheels, and directional ultra-performance radial tires. Interior upgrades are dominated by an entertainment system with a large format, high-resolution LCD screen.

Mitsubishi promotes its Lancer as an antidote to driving boredom, and Street Concept has just increased the dosage by adding plenty of style, inside and out. MOMO racer seats, harness belts, steering wheel, shift knob and boot, and aluminum pedals. A complete Kenwood audio/video/navigation package includes a MP3 player and 10-disc changer as well. At its four corners, the Lancer ES received MOMO 18×7.5 Quaser 2 wheels wrapped in Toyo Proxes 225/45R18 tires and Brembo brakes. Body mods include a full body kit, with rear wing, new grill, and hood vents, fog lamps, window tint, and paint.

The standout of the Lancer Line is the OZ Rally Edition. Mitsubishi designed this model to embody the sporty look and spirit of the Lancer rally heritage by adding alloy wheels, front and rear bumper extensions, and side air dams. Modern Image added more performance and style with a Road Race Engineering custom turbo system with front-mounted intercooler, a Nitrous Express Direct Port Nitrous Oxide system with intercooler injection, and a Magnaflo performance exhaust system. Even larger 18-inch Konig “Toxxin” wheels, and Sparco “Milano” seats and matching door-panel inserts, steering wheel, front racing harnesses, and Twisted Ten roll cage complete the sporty package.

As if the 2002 Nissan Altima wasn’t already hot enough with its new styling and 3.5-liter/240-hp DOHC 24-valve V-6 engine, Stillen has made additional modifications for enhanced performance and appearance. Stillen started by adding its own signature strut tower braces and brake systems, as well as Eibach springs to create a stouter chassis. Next came a set of dual exhausts and cold-air intake for increased performance. Finally, it received Yokohama tires wrapped around Stillen/Enkei GTV wheels; front, side, and rear body enhancements; and then the car was bathed in striking orange paint by Performance Pant and Body. Inside, a custom leather interior and carbon fiber interior kit complete the package.

After surprising many drivers with the Aztek’s unusual looks, Pontiac has made numerous enhancements to its Sports Rally Vehicle (SRV) to improve its style and appearance. Its monotone candy orange exterior now has less body cladding for a cleaner look, adding “skid plates” to the lower front fascia and lower body sides. The interior features seats trimmed in canvas and leather with over-the-seat backpacks, as well as interior bike racks, removable liftgate backrest, and adjustable rear speakers that allow the sound system to be used with the liftgate up. Aggressive off-road-style lighting uses “puddle” floodlights on the outside rearview mirrors and liftgate-mounted overhead floods for extreme illumination. Sounds like the ultimate “rave” SRV.

Modified by Rytek Projektz, this Firebird Raptor boasts 800 strip-ready horsepower on demand, thanks to its Morgan Motorsports-stroked GM 5.7-liter/540-hp LS1 V-8 and a Nitrous Express system that squirts in another 300 horses at the touch of a button. The Firebird Raptor rides on 19-inch HRE forged three-piece wheels wrapped in Toyo Proxes T1-S P265/30-19 (front) and P275/30-19 (rear) tires. Hotchkis Performance suspension components and Bilstein shocks add to the handling prowess, while Wilwood 13-inch (front) and 12.19-inch (rear) billet-caliper brakes provide stopping power. Stitchcraft has added Connolly leather to the seats and entire interior upholstery (including the trunk) for luxury on top of all that extra performance.

Focusing on the young, performance-oriented enthusiast, Pontiac has outfitted this Sunfire with sporty accessories such as new front and rear fascias with honeycomb front air dam and three-piece rear deck spoiler. Outside, functional hood vents, body-color fender flares and door handles, and five-inch exhaust tips add to the performance look. Inside, Sparco seats, enhanced seatbelt/harnesses, metal floor mats, upgraded sound system with XM satellite radio, and DVD video system with Cruise Cam remote video camera control complete the accessory package. Finally, the backseat has been removed to reduce mass for optimum performance.

This all-wheel-drive Vibe has been jam-packed with features designed to make it appealing to young drivers on the go, such as a DVD player with overhead monitor and a premium sound system that boasts XM satellite radio and six-disc in-dash CD-changer. A rolling showcase for GM Accessories, the exterior add-ons include a ground effects kit with front and rear fascias and rockers, rear liftgate spoiler, exhaust tip, and a package with 18-inch Mille Miglia EVO wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza P225/40-18 touring tires. GM is considering offering this equipment as a GM Accessories production option when the Vibe goes on sale.

With its screaming yellow-to-red paint job, there’s no way to hide the performance under the hood of this Saturn SCX show car. Its 1.9-liter DOHC four-cylinder has been radically modified by Saturn Motorsports of San Diego. The inline engine boasts JG Engine Dynamics head, custom-made JE pistons, JC Sports big-bore throttle body, and Crower rods. Combined, these hot-rod components produce 300-horsepower, more than double the engine’s normal output. The loud color theme carries into the inside with the car’s seats and door-panels, and it is emphasized by a rocking Kenwood DVD/CD/TV system that features a retractable overhead active-matrix monitor.

Saturn presents its Vue as a customizable compact sport/utility vehicle designed to provide “new perspectives on the SUV.” The Saturn Vue Urban Expression sports 18-inch alloy wheels, performance tires, four-wheel disc brakes, and suspension modifications that lower the vehicle for a bold stance. Modified front and rear fascias, side rocker skirting, spoiler, three-panel sunroof, and bold yellow paint adorn the body. Inside, an integrated navigation and multimedia setup boasts DVD player and rear-seat gaming system with monitors integrated into the headrests.

Though it’s not officially destined to be available until 2003, Toyota brought its Matrix crossover utility vehicle out to play a little early at SEMA. The high-performance XRS model is powered by the same all-aluminum 1.8-liter/180-hp DOHC VVTL-i engine found in the Celica GT-S, and it also features a four-speed electronically controlled automatic overdrive tranny, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, and 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in P215/50R17 rubber. More power is available inside from two 12-volt outlets and a 115-volt household type outlet.

Toyota started with an ordinary two-seat mid-engine MR2 Spyder roadster, and then allowed Toyota Racing Development (TRD) a free hand in adding body panels, suspension components, and additional performance accessories — all to show the selection of products available to owners through local Toyota dealers. Inside, enthusiasts will note Sparco Roadster Racing seats, TRD dash panel kit, and quickshifter. Outside it’s hard to miss the TRD Wide Body kit, which includes front bumper cover, front fenders, rocker panels, quarter panels, rear bumper cover, and adjustable rear wing, all with bolt-on installation that requires no cutting or fabricating. Its TRD-tuned suspension kit includes shocks and struts, lowering springs, and front and rear anti-roll bars.

Starting with the Sequoia’s standard 4.7-liter/240-hp I-Force V-8, Toyota Racing Development has added 50-state smog legal headers and stainless-steel exhaust to improve power by 20 horses. TRD then added a prototype TRD Supercharger system that promises up to an additional 70 horsepower. Inside, a TRD Luxury Sport Package adds custom carbon-fiber steering wheel, contoured leather-trim seats with carbon-fiber inserts, and carbon-fiber interior trim. A high-performance Boston Acoustics/Visteon Audiophile sound system includes six-disc CD changer and DVD with built in monitor.

This Volvo V40 features performance upgrades offered through Oregon-based IPD, a company that specializes in Volvo aftermarket parts/accessories. Modifications to this sweet Swede include an improved exhaust, Brembo brakes, an 18-inch wheel and tire package, and a modified suspension.

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